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Mags Munroe #3

Each To Their Own

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There are some days when being the Garda Sergeant of a small Irish town really tests me. Having to police my family and friends is a necessary evil, but when I’m faced with arresting half the children in the town, and discovering someone close to me among the offenders, well, those days I really wish I’d chosen a different career.

Irate parents are not my only problem unfortunately, as I’m then called to manage a baying mob of strangers, bearing placards and demanding change. I’m all for peaceful protest, but these people were threatening the vulnerable, and I’m just not having that.

So, after a very long week, I just want to go home and put my feet up, when a dramatic, decades-old secret is revealed. It shocks everyone in the family to the core, and it feels like everywhere I turn, where once there was trust and honesty, now there are nothing but lies.

I usually know what to do for the best, but faced with this, I’m unsure. Should I trust my instincts and bend the rules, or should I apply the law to the letter?

272 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 16, 2023

2609 people are currently reading
219 people want to read

About the author

Jean Grainger

87 books1,563 followers
Jean Grainger was born in Cork, Ireland. She has been a tour guide of her beloved home country, a teacher, a university lecturer and a playwright. She began writing fiction at the suggestion of her clients on tours, many of whom were sure all the stories she told them would make for a great book. Her first book, The Tour, has become a Number 1 bestseller on Amazon. It tells the story of a disparate group of American visitors to Ireland, who, along with their Irish tour guide have a life changing experience in the magical Emerald Isle.
Her second book, So Much Owed, is a family saga set during the Second World War. The story centres on the Buckley family of West Cork and how their lives are pulled in different directions as they become embroiled in the war. It is a sweeping family saga of intrigue and romance against the background of occupied Europe.
In her third novel, Shadow of a Century, she tells a tale of a battered old flag found in New York in 2016, a century after it was used during the Easter Rising, when Ireland made her final bid for freedom from Great Britain. This tells the story of a journalist who uncovers a story, one with much more to it than a flag.
Her fourth novel, due out in Spring 2016, Under Heaven’s Shining Stars, is set in the 1970s in Cork, Ireland and is a novel about friendship. Three boys, Liam, Patrick and Hugo, though from very different backgrounds are united in a deep but often times challenging friendship. As their lives progress, only by staying strong, can they prevail. Or fail.
Her novella, Letters of Freedom, tells the story of Carmel, stuck in a pointless marriage, when a figure from her past emerges and changes everything with a ‘like’ on Facebook. This quick read will touch your heart.
She lives in Cork with her husband and her two youngest children. The older two come home occasionally with laundry and to raid the fridge.

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5 stars
2,037 (65%)
4 stars
836 (26%)
3 stars
193 (6%)
2 stars
23 (<1%)
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10 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
182 reviews11 followers
May 7, 2023
Mags is absolutely my favorite character in the many Jean Grainger books I’ve read. She is so very identifiable to women from her musings on discount Botox (hilarious), restrictive undergarments meant to make us look more attractive, worries about her children, and so much more. In addition, Ms. Grainger has such a talent for characterization—the humorous, ecological warrior Ronnie Atkinson, supposed golf aficionado Elsie Flanagan, Traveller Jerome McGovern, and the Munroe family.

This installment is chock-full of life challenges for many characters including Mags—the troubles between Kieran’s parents, questionable happenings at Horsehead, an influx of Ukranian refugees, and so on.

This was an outstanding read that I could hardly put down, laced with contemporary issues familiar to most—Ukraine, the possible danger of Fentanyl-laced marijuana; as well as the sad treatment of pregnant Irish women in earlier years, consigned to unhappy “homes” for them—an issue which is less familiar.

Highly recommended.

Profile Image for Natalie.
247 reviews4 followers
May 5, 2023
Another fabulous instalment in the Mags Munroe series! I whizzed through this and found it interesting, amusing and moving. I had a tear in my eye more than once. No spoilers but some old favourite characters also make a welcome cameo! This can be read as a standalone but means much more read in series and I would recommend them all.
94 reviews
July 12, 2025
I am loving living with Mags Munroe and her family in the town of Ballycarrick. This book, #3 in the series, sees a group of Ukrainian women and children taking refuge in a large old house while the war rages with Russia. Before they arrive, though, local teenagers have a night of drinking and damage, and Mags and her force have to show them a hard lesson. A mystery in her husband Kieran's family shakes everyone up which involves the Irish mother-baby homes. It is so easy to settle into these books which have solid messages. Since I am quarantined with COVID, I am thoroughly enjoying this series.
Profile Image for Angela.
584 reviews5 followers
February 10, 2024
This might be my favorite of the three Mags Munroe books. Mags is such a likable character and so easy to identify with. Of these cozy mystery books, only the first book was a murder mystery and then two and three had minor mysteries (no murder involved). Really the books are better categorized as a look into Mags thoughts and daily life. Each to Their Own was extremely enjoyable and I highly recommend listening to the books.
6 reviews
September 16, 2024
Awesome series!

Characters are so human and relatable. Really enjoying Jean's work!
Issues are so relatable, regardless of where you live. I love the reflections on contemporary world experiences. Well done!
Profile Image for Nancy McShannon.
14 reviews1 follower
June 2, 2023
I began reading Jean Grainger's The Tour Series and enjoyed it so much I read all her books, 33 so far. I'll be looking forward to the next!
Profile Image for Lisa Crowe smith.
89 reviews
August 19, 2023
Great Read

I've really enjoyed this series. About Mags and her family its been a Very comforting and soothing read, Another top book by Jean Grainger. Thank you
73 reviews1 follower
May 18, 2023
Loved this series!

I have read all three books In the Mags Monroe series this week. Mags is an absolute treasure, it’s hard not to love her.

Mags Monroe is a guard or what we call a police officer in the States. She’s a mom and a wife in a very ordinary family; it’s so easy to relate. As a beat cop her job is to ensure the small Irish town Ballycarrick is running smoothly. Mags has an innate sense when something is off and a mystery needs solving.

Meet the quirky and wonderful people of the town who in turn are difficult and supportive.

What I enjoy is that there are situations that are challenging both professionally and personally. Social issues are addressed that are current and universal.

I normally do not purchase books as I am a member of Kindle Unlimited and as an avid reader it would cost a fortune to buy every book I read, but I did not hesitate to purchase this third book of the series. The first two were free with my KU subscription. I surely hope that a fourth book is in the works!
Profile Image for Colleen Chesebro.
Author 15 books88 followers
August 6, 2023
This last book was the best of all! In true Mags Munroe style, she finds herself confronting a dark family secret concerning the Irish unwed mother’s home and her mother-in-law. The revelations are truly poignant!

There’s a lot of family drama and parenting issues, but Mags pushes through. Believe it or not, the issues surrounding teenage daughters and ailing mothers make for an interesting read.

The small Irish village of Ballycarrick is forced to deal with their own racism when Ukrainian refugees seek shelter from the war with Russia. The Travelers figure into this story, too. It was heartwarming to see everyone come together for the good of the village.

I like Mags because she’s normal. She copes with her family, her Guarda duties, and tries to find solutions to everyday problems, like getting older. For Mags, everything is about finding a balance.

I think the author spoke through Mags Munroe’s voice, sharing opinions on politics and religion. Personally, I found her perspective to be refreshing. I will definitely read more books by this author.
Profile Image for Cathie.
101 reviews1 follower
July 19, 2023
Like a good z friend ,Mags returns gloriously !!

Mags, what can I say ? I've missed your common sense, you humor ,Mags and reading more about your journey. Irish families are a breed of their own,I so identify with them because I am from one of them. My Gran used to say ' to each their own ' practical daily herself, but she was from Kilkenny. I thoroughly enjoyed this book it had some amazing happenings, a few twists, but lots of love in these pages. Its all set in Ireland, with Ukrainian Refugees, Travelers and Town folk trying to get along ,a brief scary scene with out of town rabble who have no real reason but to terrify. Help arrives in the most unlikely way...I encourage you to read the ins and outs of this wonderful offering from Jean Granger.... She's Irish too !!
2,232 reviews4 followers
July 10, 2024
I loved this one the most. Mags is such a good woman, with infinite common sense and lots of patience. She tries to police her town with compassion and firmness. In this one, she has to discipline her own daughter, as in arrest her for underage drinking and other things too.. She has a fabulous husband and a not so fabulous mother-in-law, Nora. It turns out that Nora has a secret.

This is not just a sappy love story. Mags has to deal with Ukrainian refugees who are placed in the village away from Putin’s invading soldiers. There are protesters who are right wing nuts. As an adopted child, I found the story of Nora and her lost baby very compelling. I am glad that the “home for unwed mothers” where I was born in 1955 as not religiously affiliated…not especially b6 the Catholic religion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for DonnaBeeSparkly.
26 reviews
May 19, 2023
This third book in the Mags Munroe series does not disappoint, to say the least. As much as I enjoy Jean Grainger's historical fiction, I hold a special appreciation for this series being set in present day Ireland, as I have been lucky to visit Ireland and can really picture the atmosphere. The story is well paced as usual, and I imagine that this is not only due to the excellent writing skills but also in part to Ms. Grainger's experience as an educator. She is able to explore the character of Mags, Mags' family, and the residents of Ballycarrick, and at the same time touch on topical current events with a truthful and hopeful outlook. This installment blends Mags' career issues, marital relationship, and situations with her daughters, and also deals with extended family issues. Although these may not be the exact same things that I may deal with as a working woman with a family, it is very realistic in the interconnectedness of real life and the challenges of balancing career and family. I always enjoy delving into the quirks of Jean Grainger's characters, stories, and plot twists, but it was great to look back and realize just how smoothly and effortlessly a book of this length was read. I also love the thoughtful, well balanced ways that world concerns are touched on, such as climate change, the pandemic, and the conflict in Ukraine in ways that make me think, but still give me hope. One of my favourite passages: it's "easier to believe everyone is bad, everyone is devious, a liar, mean, cruel, whatever. But they're not. If anything, as a species we're getting kinder. That's why injustice bothers us so much." This book can be read as a standalone book, but is all the richer as part of this wonderful series.
754 reviews17 followers
May 17, 2023
This is the first Mags Munroe book I have read and my initial impression was that it was a completely different genre to other books I have read by Jean Grainger: I spent the first chapters laughing as Mags describes her interactions with the various residents of Ballycarrick.
However, more serious current and historical issues are quickly presented, with even the Ukrainian conflict being featured! Despite the serious nature of the incidents and the fallout being experienced by Mags and her family, the author continues to include plenty of Irish humour.
This is an author who writes with skill and eloquence, and who does not disappoint her readers.
I received a free ARC from the author and this is my honest opinion.
26 reviews
May 29, 2023
The warmth of the Irish shines through

Jean Grainger should be the ambassador of Ireland! Her books always make you a feel like you are right there. She writes of honest living. The trials and hardship as well as the joys and blessings. She makes you think about your own relationships and attitudes all while spinning a yarn that is a page turner. Right up to date with tales of the hardships felt by the Ukrainians in this needless war and the need for hospitality and kindness by all. If you're a parent you'll appreciate the stresses of raising a teen while balancing caring for senior parents. All of her books are amazing. And all will leave you wanting a tour and a cuppa in y the emerald isle.
Profile Image for Jean .
662 reviews19 followers
December 4, 2023
This is a lovely book from a good series. I hope Jean Grainger intends to take her readers back to visit the Munroe family more times in the future. Because the books can be read as stand alone books or out of sequence, there are some repetitions to bring new readers into the stories. If that really bugs you, pick one to enjoy. Also, in a mild way the author considers up-to-date issues. I say mild because Sgt. Malone can usually see where those who disagree with her are coming from, even though she can speak her mind when something needs to be said. So if you dislike political correctness, if you are very conservative to the point of hating those different from yourself, this isn’t the series for you. I enjoyed these books and recommend them.
119 reviews2 followers
May 19, 2023
What a lovely and timely story

Once again Jean Grainger has added to our family as if the characters really belong. Mags is my sister, Kieran my brother-in-law. My nerves are a delight to me..even when Ellie gets in trouble. No, thank goodness, not THAT kind of trouble but it does come up in a surprising way. Ms. Grainger takes the news of the day and wraps our family up in it. The surprise of it is breathtaking; the resolve is kind and loving. Just what you'd expect...but in the very best way, from a Jean Grainger family and even an old friend from the very beginning! Loved it!
Profile Image for Naomi Krokowski.
510 reviews14 followers
May 21, 2023
I adore Mags Monroe and her family. She’s a Garda Sergeant in a small Irish town that is so specific, yet simultaneously universal to the small towns I grew up in and live in now. I desperately hope there’s many more installments and that this isn’t merely a trilogy. Mags is intelligent, funny, brave, flawed, caring, and compassionate. At times she’s so believable I find myself thinking of her as a real person I can’t wait to have a big glass of wine with.
Mags is a Maeve Binchy worthy protagonist of the highest order. I’m simply going to be gutted if Jean Grainger doesn’t give us more of her!
75 reviews
June 26, 2023
Another Great Grainger Book!

Family secrets. Jean must have a fantastic team of researchers. Just because it takes place in Ireland doesn't mean the same things haven't happened in the U.S. Nora's story hit close to home for me as a child of surprise parentage. I love Mags and her humor (which I'm guessing is a reflection of Jean's own humor). I love that her text isn't "Americanized" so I get a real feel for Irish vernacular. This one also takes place in current time with Ukrainian refugees arriving and their struggles to survive. If you've never read a Grainger book, I highly recommend her as an author.
Profile Image for Coco.
165 reviews5 followers
June 28, 2023
I have thoroughly enjoyed each of the Mags Munroe books. The characters are fully fleshed out and the books are a delicious mix of cozy charm together with current events. Set in a small Irish village where Mags is a member of the Garda, or police, they’re a rich combination of daily life, police work, family, and history. This book details the horrific treatment of unwed mothers and babies in “homes”run by the Catholic Church in Ireland. Mags is a totally relatable protagonist, musing about aging, raising children, marriage, in-laws, and more, all while working in a traditionally male-dominated field. Don’t let the charming Irish village fool you, these still waters run deep.
Profile Image for Elaine .
632 reviews7 followers
July 24, 2023
This is a great series of books that combine family drama and community policing in Ireland. The books give you a good glimpse into small-town Irish culture and issues and this book is no exception. Themes of refugees from the Ukraine, racism, snobbery, Irish mother-baby homes and parenting are all interwoven into t very satisfying and heartwarming tale. I love that the main character, Mags Munroe, is flawed and deals with the same issues we do as we age, despite her role as a garda sergeant. The author is not afraid to voice her own opinions on politics and religion which may bother some readers but I love the perspective she provides.
Profile Image for Kay Schuch.
113 reviews3 followers
September 3, 2023
I am so in love with this Mags Monroe series! I feel as though I know each and every one of these delightful characters for real! I could literally walk into the pages of these books and feel right at home! I’ve read a number of Ms Grainger’s books and excited to read the rest of them. As much as have enjoyed the various storylines, the Mags Monroe series, IMHO is the BEST! I hope the series will continue and never end, though I know the reality is all series eventually come to a conclusion. Anyway…….to me, this is a must read series of laughter, heartache and complete enjoyment!

Thank You Jean Grainger!! Keep-’em coming!
438 reviews2 followers
August 4, 2024
What is the Irish equivalent of an Anglophile? I guess that is what I am turning into since I have just finished the third installment of this series and I want more. What an incredible tale of family with Irish history and current events thrown in. I am usually a mystery buff, but this series of Mags Monroe has captured my interest. I'm not sure if it is because I have a nephew-in-law from Galway or if it is because one of my best friends Patty has Irish roots or that Jean Grainger is just a compelling storyteller. Maybe it is all three, but I have thoroughly enjoyed this series and look forward to reading more.
568 reviews6 followers
October 10, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up.

Part of me really wants to pooh–pooh these books and call them Hallmark lit(e). Except, that I really can’t do it. These are slice-of–life stories, but they’re not all fairy lights and butterflies. Mags, her family, and her community deal with really important and difficult issues in every book. It’s true that those issues are generally resolved in a very positive way — hence the “Hallmark”— but the problems are substantive and their resolutions are realistic.

These books are not edgy, and they’re not funny, but they are honest and real. And the writing is quite good.
Narrator Siobhan Waring did an excellent job.
Profile Image for Lcr.
897 reviews7 followers
November 30, 2024
Each to Their Own is the third Mags Monroe book. You do not have to had read the previous books but I do recommend them as the stories are continuous and they are a great read.

This is a nice return to Ballycarrick and Garda Mags is as busy as always. Her life is about to get harder as the village sees the arrival of Ukrainian refugees. This series whilst being a gentle and everyday slice of Irish life also highlights some issues that can divide communities or pull them together. Mags is magnificent as always. I also really liked the link to Castle Dysert.

I really enjoyed this book and definitely recommend it.
242 reviews1 follower
July 5, 2023
Oh what a lovely book!

As are all Ms Grainger’s books this third installment was brilliant! So glad I’d already read the first two books so that I knew the backstories.
Beautifully written with all the characters well defined so that the reader can understand their motives and reactions.
Wonderful ending! She ties this series just a little, into my favorite of her other series- “The Tour” series. So lovely to catch up, even for a minute with my favorite family!
Oh how I love this, my favorite author!
26 reviews
August 6, 2023
Something for everyone

The lead character is sargeant head of station in west Irish town of about 8000 where "nothing ever happens". This gives the kindly but no-nonsense officer time to deal with contemporary problems with roots in the past, her family ,local policing and current troubles,hence the reader gets a cosy, a police proceedural and a historical all rolled into one. The characterisation is such that the reader wants to know their futures which hopefully allow the author to continue the series as current events warrant.🤔😀
Profile Image for Pat.
37 reviews
September 29, 2023
This was the best Mags Munroe story of the three. Jean Grainger weaves another tale full of laughs, tears, mystery, marital issues, and even teenage angst into another unforgettable story. Her characters are richly described and all are endearing. And what a nice surprise to meet characters from Jean’s series, “The Tour” in this story! Adding to the enjoyment is that it’s an audio book offered on Hoopla. (Check your library to see if it offers Hoopla). Siobhan Waring’s voice reading the story will make you want to listen all day! Well done, Jean Grainger and Siobhan Waring!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Mary Barrett.
803 reviews11 followers
December 9, 2023
5 stars

Another great book by Jean Grainger! The humor had me laughing all the way from page one to the very end. It brought me to tears several times and had me cheering towards the end. Set in the beautiful isle of Ireland with Mags Munroe, police Sergeant, in charge of the small local Police force, this book reaches into the depths of the life of a small town police women. The characters are so realistic I hated to say goodbye at the end of the book! Absolutely recommend this series, but start with book one.
154 reviews
September 20, 2024
So many tears

This series of books has made me cry over and over with both sadness and happiness because I feel like I lived these stories within the books. Jean, I have so far read seven of your series and can not wait to finish all that Kindle Unlimited has to offer. I am so enthralled with learning about Ireland through your eyes. I visited Ireland in September 2023 and will be returning again because a week was not enough to see all of what Ireland has to offer. You are like a tour guide telling of your country's merits, thank you.
47 reviews
January 5, 2025
Great book, great series for my reading preferences

Well written, interesting, and informative. It has the things I enjoy and fewer of the things I dislike (violence and misery, for example, which I can find in newspapers should I want any more). The relationships and cultural aspects are interesting and appropriately complex. The plots are sound. The dialogue and internal monologues are witty and helpful. This series works for my reading tastes. Characters are interesting and realistically imperfect.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews

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